Tony Scheffler gives Lions matchup advantage against base defense

AP File PhotoTight end Tony Scheffler, who the Detroit Lions picked up from the Denver Broncos in a three-team trade this offseason should help take some pressure off of wideout Calvin Johnson.

ALLEN PARK - Detroit Lions tight end Tony Scheffler was Phase Two of the team's three-point plan to help unleash Calvin Johnson. First, was the signing of free agent receiver Nate Burleson, then Scheffler and then the drafting of running back Jahvid Best.

At the time of the three-way trade with the Broncos and Eagles (with Philadelphia getting linebacker Ernie Sims), it was believed that Scheffler's arrival might have to do with the knee injury to Brandon Pettigrew. Not so. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan believes the Lions can pull coverage away from Johnson more effectively with two-tight end formations - especially one that features Scheffler.

What Scheffler brings to Detroit's offense - more than the other two acquisitions - is matchup problems against a base defense. The Lions can either use Scheffler tight on the line and have a favorable advantage to run the ball or, they can split him out wide - like the Colts do with Dallas Clark - and turn him into a slot receiver.

Scheffler, who has good speed and great hands, has a natural feel for the passing game and should be a big-time threat in Detroit. Scheffler, who went to Western Michigan, is trying to reverse a trend in which his numbers - catches and touchdowns - have dropped in each of the last two years.

In his final season with the Broncos, Scheffler started nine of 15 games and had just 31 catches for 416 yards and two touchdowns. Much of that can be attributed to Scheffler's issues with the new coaching staff - he had made it clear from the beginning that he didn't want to be part of Josh McDaniels' rebuilding efforts.

Scheffler, who said he's thrilled to be in Detroit, has one year left on his contract. If this two-tight end thing works out like the Lions hope it does, they'll be approaching Scheffler later in the season about signing an extension.